§ Lord Vivianasked Her Majesty's Government:
What arrangements are in place for nuclear, biological and chemical protection of United Kingdom base areas in the Gulf; and what theatre missile defence will be available. [HL1678]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Ministry of Defence (Lord Bach)United Kingdom Armed Forces deployed on operations are afforded a range of defences against NBC attack. These include detection capabilities, warning and reporting systems, decontamination equipment and procedures, physical protection, including respirators and protective suits, and medical countermeasures.
Our strategy to manage the threat from ballistic missiles is a comprehensive one whch incorporates counter-proliferation, diplomatic measures, deterrence and threat reduction capabilities, including the NBC detection and protection mentioned previously. Significant protection is available through appropriate tactics, training and procedures.